Pump operation panel simulator

ABSTRACT

A pump panel training device is provided and includes a plurality of simulated gages operable to imitate gages upon a fire truck pump panel, a plurality of simulated controls operable to imitate controls upon the fire truck pump panel, and a simulated water hose operable to imitate one of water temperature changes, water temperature pressure, and water hose vibration for the fire truck pump panel.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This disclosure is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.16/570,717 filed on Sep. 13, 2019 which claims the benefit of U.S.Provisional Application No. 62/732,304 filed on Sep. 17, 2018, both ofwhich are hereby incorporated by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure is a training simulator, and, in particular, to atraining simulator used to simulate operation of features of anemergency responder vehicle.

BACKGROUND

The statements in this section merely provide background informationrelated to the present disclosure. Accordingly, such statements are notintended to constitute an admission of prior art.

Fire department vehicles and other similar vehicles include complexsystems that are installed or loaded onto the vehicle. In one exemplaryembodiment, a fire pump truck includes incoming and outgoing waterlines, for example, receiving a water flow from a fire hydrant,providing pressure to the water flow, and providing the pressurizedwater flow to fire fighters. Such pump trucks are complicated devices.Operating the pump machinery on the pump truck incorrectly can haveadverse results. Too little pressure can result in fire fighters notbeing able to adequately fight fires and can result in increasedinjuries and property damage. Too much pressure can damage the pumpmachinery, damage hoses, and hamper firefighting efforts withunpredictable equipment behavior. A pump overheating can similar causedamage and cause unpredictable equipment behavior.

SUMMARY

A pump panel training device is provided and includes a plurality ofsimulated gages operable to imitate gages upon a fire truck pump panel,a plurality of simulated controls operable to imitate controls upon thefire truck pump panel, and a simulated water hose operable to imitateone of water temperature changes, water temperature pressure, and waterhose vibration for the fire truck pump panel.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

One or more embodiments will now be described, by way of example, withreference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 schematically illustrates in a front view an exemplary firstembodiment of a pump panel training device, in accordance with thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 2 schematically illustrates in a top view the pump panel trainingdevice of FIG. 1 , in accordance with the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 schematically illustrates in a side view the pump panel trainingdevice of FIG. 1 , in accordance with the present disclosure;

FIG. 4 schematically illustrates in a perspective view an exemplarysecond embodiment of a pump panel training device, in accordance withthe present disclosure;

FIG. 5 schematically illustrates in a side view the pump panel trainingdevice of FIG. 4 , in accordance with the present disclosure;

FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary simulation system including a first pumppanel training device, a second pump panel training device, and asupervisory computerized device, in accordance with the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 7 illustrates an exemplary alternative simulation system includinga pump panel training device, a driver training device, a supervisorycomputerized device, and a remote server device, in accordance with thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 8 schematically illustrates components of an exemplary pump paneltraining device communicating over a communications bus, in accordancewith the present disclosure;

FIG. 9 schematically illustrates an exemplary computerized processoruseful to operate a pump panel training device, in accordance with thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 10 schematically illustrates an exemplary hose portion connected toan exemplary intake connection of a pump panel training device, withcomponents internal to the pump panel training device fluidly connectedto the hose portion and operable to control temperature, pressure, andvibration of the hose portion, in accordance with the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 11 schematically illustrates an exemplary pump panel trainingdevice operable to be operated with exemplary virtual reality andaugmented reality devices, in accordance with the present disclosure;

FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary process to providetactile outputs to a user related to a pump panel simulation, inaccordance with the present disclosure; and

FIG. 13 schematically illustrates an exemplary alternative configurationof a pump panel training device used in tandem with a water hosecircuit.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Pump trucks and the associated pump equipment are complicated machinery.Skilled technicians working on the equipment use information from manydifferent sources to confirm that the pump is working correctly, fromvisual information from gages and video displays, sound from the pumpmachinery, and tactile inputs such as vibrations in the pump housingsand water pressures, temperatures, and oscillations in the fire hoses. Avideo screen only simulation would miss out on the complexities of themultiple senses needed to adequately monitor the pump equipment.Additionally, sound generated by electronic speakers is different fromsounds generated from actual functioning equipment, missing directionalqueues and accompanying vibrations that give the operator a morecomplete sense of how the equipment is functioning.

A pump operation panel simulator and simulation method is providedincluding a range of sensory signals. Embodiments of disclosed methodsinclude heating and/or cooling of primary pump inlet for pump operationpanel training devices.

During the operation of a water pump, lack of knowledge, training andexperience on the part of the pump operator can lead to the pumpoverheating which can result in equipment damage that is expensive torepair. To get a sense of the pump temperature the pump operator touchesthe pump's primary intake components. Exposing the pump operator to atraining simulator device that provides tactile feeling of heat and coldat the pump intake provides the student operator a more realistictraining experience.

Thermoelectric device is used to provide heating and cooling of the pumpintake components. During a training exercise, the simulated pumpcomputes the pump temperature as a function of water flow rate throughthe pump and pump rotational velocity. Pump temperature is transmittedto the thermoelectric cooling system via the training devicesinput/output system.

After the completion of a training exercise, the training device's pumpinlet hardware must be driven to temperature necessary to start the nexttraining exercise.

Inflating/deflating soft inlet hose line can also be an object of thetraining simulation. During the operation of a fire truck pump, theoperator can be directed to sense water source pressure by the tactilefeel of the water source feed hose inflation against his or her leg. Apump operator training device that provides this tactile feel gives thestudent pump operator a more immersive training experience.

A short length of inlet soft hose fitted internally with a bladder andelectrically actuated valves connected to a compressed air supply suchthat the inflation can be remotely controlled. The simulation of thehydrant pressure and water flow rate in the water source line is usedcompute the pressure necessary to inflate the bladder within the shortlength of inlet hose. A compressed air source is used to inflate thebladder.

Additional features can include a tandem/relay operation and dualpumping simulation. In real life fire-fighting, often a water source isnot ideally located relative to the fire. Either the water source is toofar away or height differential provides too much pressure loss toeffectively fight the fire. To overcome these problems, multiple pumpingtrucks or pumping devices can be used in sequence and/or in parallel tofeed water from the water source to a location where it is needed.

An embodiment of the disclosed simulator can include a plurality of pumppanel training devices to simulate the connection of multiple pumpingdevices to deliver water from a water source to a destination where itis needed. Training for this kind of situation can be accomplished byusing pump panel training devices that can support tandem/relay and dualpumping operations. In one embodiment, a simulation system can coupletwo or more pump panel training devices via network connection. Such anetwork of connected panel training device can provide a team trainingenvironment where one pump operator on one apparatus must compensate forthe actions of another pump operator on another apparatus.

In one exemplary operation where two pump panel training devices areutilized to simulate two pumping devices connected in sequence, a firstpump panel training device can be utilized to simulate a first pumpingdevice drawing water from a water source and supplying an intermediateflow of water to a second pumping device, and a second pump paneltraining device can be utilized to simulate the second pumping device,drawing water from the intermediate flow of water and delivering thewater to a location that needs the water. Parameters regarding the watersource can be provided to the first pump panel training device, andinputs to the first pump panel training device by a first trainee can beused to determine simulated operating parameters for the first pumppanel training device including properties of the intermediate flow ofwater, including flow rate, temperature, water pressure, etc. Theseproperties of the intermediate flow of water are provided bycommunication network to the second pump panel training device. Theseproperties of the intermediate flow of water in combination with inputsto the second pump panel training device by a second trainee can be usedto determine simulated operating parameters for the second pump paneltraining device including properties of an outlet flow of water to besupplied to the destination that needs the water. Simulation of asequence of two pumping devices is provided as an example of how thedisclosed simulator may be operated, multiple variations of this exampleare envisioned, and the disclosure is not intended to be limited to theparticular examples provided.

Input parameters to a simulation event can be preset as parameters toone of a sequence of training programs. In one exemplary embodiment, aseries of pre-programmed simulation events of increasing difficulty canbe provided with a pump panel training device. In another exemplaryembodiment, a randomized simulation event can be operated, for example,with a trainee or an instructor being given an ability to establish arange of values or a likelihood of events occurring as part of therandomized simulation event. In another exemplary embodiment, aninstructor operating a remote computerized device such as a laptopcomputer or a smart-phone can be given a supervisory application,enabling the instructor to monitor performance of the trainee andcontrol inputs to the program, for example, prompting simulatedoccurrences such as an acute hose failure or interruption of a watersource during a simulation event. Such a remote computerized device canbe described as an instructor operator station. According to oneembodiment, the primary responsibilities of the instructor can includeselecting a pre-programmed simulation event, setting a hoseconfiguration for a simulation event, monitoring progress of asimulation event, generating simulated malfunctions in simulatedequipment during a simulation event, selecting programmed options for asimulation event, and preparing reports to summarize performance duringa simulation event. Reports to summarize a trainee's performance canrate an effectiveness of delivering water to the location needing water(for example, summarizing an estimate of gallons delivered), describeequipment failures caused by the trainee, and failure by the trainee tofollow particular instructions such as turning a discharge handle tooquickly. According to one embodiment, a simulation event status displaycan be provided to the instructor, providing the instructor with copiesof the gages visible to the trainee, representations of all controlinputs manipulated by the trainee, a summary of all actions taken so farby the trainee, a summary of upcoming programmed events in thesimulation event yet to occur, and options for making any equipmentwithin the pump panel training device fail upon command of theinstructor. For example, the instructor can be provided with a touchscreen display, and the instructor can make any one of the gages visibleto the trainee fail by touching the area of the touch screen displayshowing the gage.

Input parameters to a simulation event can include a wide variety offactors, including but not limited to information about water sources,water tank level, foam tank level, pump engine operation status, pumpengine temperature, hose diameters, hose lengths, water usage of anoutlet flow (for example, on/off status for one or more spray nozzles),ambient temperature and other ambient weather effects, watertemperature, equipment failure status (for example, timed occurrence ofhose blockage), and programmed events such as a radio message beingplayed at a particular time.

Simulation event outputs can include gage readings; graphical imagesdisplayed upon an inset video monitor; graphical images displayed uponan external video monitor; sound outputs provided through an audiosystem; sound outputs provided through a simulated emergency radiosystem; vibratory outputs simulated, for example, through operation of amotor including an offset weight upon an motor output shaft; simulatedwater inlet parameters such as temperature, vibration, and hoseinflation; simulated water outlet parameters such as temperature,vibration, and hose inflation; and warning and status lights.

A variety of control inputs can incorporated in or attached to a pumppanel training device. For example, a pump panel training device caninclude a lever, knob, or other control input for opening and closing aprimary water inlet; a lever, knob, other control input for opening andclosing a secondary water inlet; a lever, knob, other control input foropening and closing a pump inlet; a lever, knob, other control input foropening and closing each of a plurality of water outlets or dischargelines; a lever, knob, other control input for opening and closing eachof a plurality of pre-connect lines; a lever, knob, other control inputfor opening and closing an on-board tank fill and recirculating line; alever, knob, other control input for opening and closing an on-boardtank to pump line; a lever, knob, other control input for opening andclosing drain valves; a lever, knob, other control input for controllingpriming the pump (removing air from a water pump inlet); a knob or othercontrol input for controlling a pump engine throttle; controls operableto control flow of a fire-fighting foam to a pump; controls associatedwith a two stage pump; a horn control switch; and a knob or othercontrol input for controlling a relief valve useful to control pumppressure. Other control inputs related to various other actual pumppanel functions can additionally or alternatively be utilized. A controluseful to simulate control of engine throttle can in one example includea n “OK-to-pump” indicator.

Visual outputs of a pump panel training device can a number of exemplaryoutputs, including but not limited to: gages indicating simulated waterpressure in a number of attached lines; gages indicating engine watertemperature, engine oil pressure, and engine rotational speed; gages andassociated controls simulating an engine governor device; gagesindicating status of an on-board water tank and an on-board foam tank;

Audio outputs provided by a pump panel training device can include butare not limited to engine sounds that respond to throttle and pump load,primer sounds, cavitation sounds, tank fill overflow sounds, open drainvalve sounds, pressure relief valve operation sounds, and warningsounds. Additionally or alternatively, the audio system can include anintercom permitting an instructor to interact with a trainee.

An inset video monitor can be attached to a face of a pump paneltraining device and can be used to simulate a variety of control panelsthat can be present upon an actual pump panel. Such an inset videomonitor can include a touch screen display, enabling a trainee tointeract with the controls that can be present upon an actual pumppanel.

An external video monitor can be attached proximate to a pump paneltraining device, for example, with a rotating and/or extending armenabling movement of the external video monitor relative to the pumppanel training device. In this way, a trainee can be presented with anexternal video monitor in a separate viewing direction away from thepump panel training device, such that the trainee can be required tosplit attention between the external video monitor and the pump paneltraining device to simulate complicated scenarios that can occurrelative to an actual pump panel. For example, an external video monitorcan display a representation of a fire hydrant hookup, a dump-tankhookup, a scene including simulated fire-fighters, a scene includinghoses leading up to and leading away from the pump panel trainingdevice, a scene including a distant second fire truck including a pumppanel, or other similar environmental scenes that can require theattention of a pump panel operator. In one embodiment, the externalvideo monitor can display a hose and nozzle layout schematic, providingthe trainee with necessary information to understand the network ofhoses attached to the pump panel training device.

Simulated hoses and hose systems can include a variety of embodiments.In one exemplary embodiment, a hose section of one to a few feet inlength can include a threaded connection fitting on a first end(operable to be attached to an inlet or outlet fitting upon a pump paneltraining device) and a crimped or sealed end upon a second end. Such asealed hose section attached to the pump panel training device can befilled with air or water, and that air or water can be heated, cooled,vibrated, and/or pressurized to simulate various conditions in the hose.In another exemplary embodiment, a length of hose with threaded fittingon both ends, can be attached to the pump panel training device, andwater or air can be cycled through the hose to simulate variousconditions in the hose. In one embodiment, an auxiliary pump device canbe used to cycle water or air through the hose and condition the wateror air (control temperature, create vibrations, control pressure, etc.)

A simulation event can be programmed in order to simulate attachment ofhoses to a fire department connection (FDC) system, which can include aconnection on an outside of a building which enables connected hoses tosupply water to a building's interior standpipe or sprinkler system.Maintaining water pressure within a selected range can be required forproper operation of an FDC system. Parameters of a simulation event caninstruct a trainee regarding how to maintain a discharge water pressurewithin such a selected range under varying conditions. In one exemplaryembodiment, proper operation of the pump panel training device dependsupon a simulated water demand, which can vary throughout a simulationevent based upon which and how many sprinkler zones within a buildingare currently requiring a water flow.

Compressed air foam can be utilized in fire-fighting. The disclosed pumppanel training device can simulate use of a compressed air foam system.A control input simulating control over a compressed air foam system caninclude an air valve control for each discharge

A dry hydrant is a device used in actual settings that includes pipesconnected to a water source such as a pond. In contrast to fire hydrantsin urban areas where the fire hydrant has access to pressurized water,dry hydrants are initially without water and enable a fire truck to drawwater through the attached pipe from the water source to the dryhydrant. A simulation event can be programmed to test procedures toaccess water through a dry hydrant.

A simulation event builder program can be made available to aninstructor, providing the instructor with an ability to program and savecustomized simulation events.

In one embodiment, the disclosed simulator can be operated incooperation with an emergency vehicle driving simulator, such thatperformance and decisions made in the driving simulator affectparameters in the simulation incorporating the pump panel trainingdevice. For example, controls in a driver's cockpit must be activatedprior to operation of a pump panel starting. A simulation event cancoordinate between the simulators to determine and require that properactivation of the simulated controls in the cockpit occur prior tooperation of the simulated pump panel. In another example, distance froma fire hydrant, distance from a fire-fighting scene, location inrelation to a second truck with a pump panel, elevation of the truck inrelation to a water source, and location in relation to a loud piece ofequipment can all be used to simulate conditions in a simulation event.A data link between computerized controls of the driving simulation andthe disclosed simulation incorporating the pump panel training devicecan exchange data related to various parameters, including but notlimited to simulated engine RPM, power-take-off engagement, engine oilpressure, water temperature, and other data related to running orpausing the simulation event.

Referring now to the drawings, wherein the showings are for the purposeof illustrating certain exemplary embodiments only and not for thepurpose of limiting the same, FIG. 1 schematically illustrates in afront view an exemplary first embodiment of a pump panel training deviceincluding a side mount pump panel device. Pump panel training device 10is illustrated including cabinet 20, display monitor 30, and audiospeaker 40. Pump panel training device 10 includes a plurality ofsimulated controls, simulated outputs, and simulated connection fittingsuseful to train a trainee in operation of an actual pump panel device.Simulated connection fittings include intake connection 50, simulatingan exemplary five inch diameter hose connection; preconnection fitting80, simulating an exemplary 2.5 inch diameter hose connection; dischargeconnection 86, simulating an additional exemplary 2.5 inch diameter hoseconnection; and discharge connection 87, simulating an additionalexemplary 2.5 inch diameter hose connection. Simulated outputs includemaster intake pressure gage 60, master discharge pressure gage 61,driver side preconnect pressure gage 62, driver side preconnect pressuregage 63, passenger side discharge (No. 2) pressure gage 64, delugedischarge pressure gage 65, driver side discharge (No. 1) pressure gage70, and driver side discharge (No. 3) pressure gage 71. Simulatedcontrols include driver side preconnect control knob 66, driver sidepreconnect control knob 67, passenger side discharge (No. 2) controlknob 68, deluge discharge control knob 69, driver side discharge (No. 1)control knob 72, and driver side discharge (No. 3) control knob 73.Additionally, driver side discharge (No. 1) control knob 82, driver sidedischarge (No. 3) control knob 83, driver side preconnect control knob84, and driver side preconnect control knob 85 are provided.Additionally, a pump intake shut-off lever 81 is provided. Additionally,an intake control valve knob 52 is provided. Additionally, an intake tapfitting 54 is provided. Additionally, pump priming controls 78, enginethrottle controls 74, valve control knob 75, transfer valve controlswitch 79, tank file and recirculating line control knob 76, on-boardtank to pump control knob 77, and manual pump priming control knob 90are provided. Additionally, informational placard 88 and informationalplacard 89 are illustrated, providing important information foroperation of the device.

Cabinet 20 includes a metallic box operable to house components of pumppanel training device 10. Cabinet 20 can include wheels 22 operable topermit movement of pump panel training device 10.

Display 30 permits pump panel training device 10 to illustrate complexor optional displays depending upon a configuration of the simulationevent being operated. For example, details regarding an optionalcompressed air foam system can be displayed upon display 30. Display 30can include an exemplary liquid crystal display. Display 30 can includea touch-screen device capable of displaying information and receivinginputs through a trainee touching different parts of display 30. Display30 can relay information to the trainee, for example, displaying acurrent level of an on-board water tank or a current level of anon-board foam tank. In one exemplary embodiment, at a conclusion of asimulation event, display 30 can display results of the simulation eventto the trainee.

Intake connection 50 is illustrated without any hose or hose portionconnected to it for clarity of illustration. According to embodiments ofthe disclosure, a hose or a hose portion can be connected to intakeconnection 50, the hose or hose portion can be filled with a substancesuch as air or water, and heat, pressure, and vibration of the hose orhose portion can be controlled through a simulation event. In oneembodiment, a trainee receiving high marks in a simulation event candepend upon the trainee sensing conditions in the hose and changingcontrol input settings based upon the sensed conditions.

FIG. 2 schematically illustrates in a top view the pump panel trainingdevice of FIG. 1 . Pump panel training device 10 is illustrated,including cabinet 20, intake connection 50, preconnection fitting 80,discharge connection 86, audio speaker 40, pump intake shut-off lever81, intake control valve knob 52, and driver side discharge (No. 1)control knob 82.

FIG. 3 schematically illustrates in a side view the pump panel trainingdevice of FIG. 1 . Pump panel training device 10 is illustrated,including cabinet 20, audio speaker 40, intake connection 50, and intakecontrol valve knob 52.

The embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1-3 is provided as an illustrativeexample of how a pump panel training device can be configured. It willbe appreciated that a manufacturer of such a pump panel training devicecan change control, display, and connection fittings to simulatedifferent actual pump panels. Actual controls, gages, and connectionfittings can be fitted to cabinet 20 to increase realism, with internalelectronics within cabinet 20 transforming computerized control signalsand data within cabinet 20 into and from interactions with the controls,gages, and connection fittings situated upon the exterior of cabinet 20.A wide variety of cabinet and component configurations are envisioned,and the disclosure is not intended to be limited to the particularexamples provided herein.

FIG. 4 schematically illustrates in a perspective view an exemplarysecond embodiment of a pump panel training device including a top mountpump panel device. Pump panel training device 110 is similar to pumppanel training device 10 of FIG. 1 , with the exception that pump paneltraining device 110 is operable to simulate an actual pump panel devicethat would be situated on a top of a fire truck instead of on a side ofa fire truck. Pump panel training device 110 is illustrated includingcabinet 120, display 130, audio speaker 140, trainee stand 170, andstand railing 172. Pump panel training device 110 includes a pluralityof control levers 162 and control knobs 167 operable to simulate leversand knobs that exist on a similar actual pump panel device. Further,pump panel training device 110 includes intake pressure gage 161,discharge pressure gage 161, and a plurality of pressure gages 163operable to simulate pressure gages that exist on a similar actual pumppanel device. Pump panel training device 110 further includes a pair ofvalve control knobs 166, pump priming control 165, engine throttlecontrol 164, and informational placard 169. Pump panel training device110 further includes intake connection 150 and connections 154. Intakeconnection 150 includes an attached hose portion 152 including a hoseportion with a round connection fitting on one end operable to attach tointake connection 150 and a sealed end on a second end. Cabinet 120includes internal components that can fill hose portion 152 with asubstance such as water or air and can heat, pressurize, and/or vibratethe substance to simulate conditions that occur on a hose connected toan actual pump panel during operation.

FIG. 5 schematically illustrates in a side view the pump panel trainingdevice of FIG. 4 . Pump panel training device 110 is illustratedincluding cabinet 120, audio speaker 140, trainee stand 170, and standrailing 172. Pump panel training device 110 includes a plurality ofcontrol levers 162 and control knobs 167. Further, pump panel trainingdevice 110 includes plurality of pressure gages 163. Pump panel trainingdevice 110 further includes valve control knob 166. Pump panel trainingdevice 110 further includes intake connection 150 and connections 154.Intake connection 150 includes an attached hose portion 152.

Pump panel training device 110 further includes an optional externaldisplay 176. External display 176 can be attached to any embodiment of apump panel training device and at various locations on the pump paneltraining devices. Multiple external displays can be utilized on a singlepump panel training device. External display 176 can include graphicaldisplays useful to convey important information to a trainee, forexample, including information about a water source that is beingsimulated or a hose configuration that is being simulated. Externaldisplay 176 can be attached to pump panel training device 110 with anarticulable arm 174.

FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary simulation system including a first pumppanel training device, a second pump panel training device, and asupervisory computerized device. Simulation system 200 is illustratedincluding a first pump panel training device 10A, a second pump paneltraining device 10B, and supervisory computerized device 210. In oneembodiment, two pump panel training devices can be utilized in a samelocation, with two separate simulation events being operated inparallel, with a single supervisory computerized device controllingparameters of both simulation events. In another embodiment, first pumppanel training device 10A and a second pump panel training device 10Bcan be used to operate a cooperative simulation event, for example, withfirst pump panel training device 10A simulating drawing water from awater source and supplying an intermediate flow of water to second pumppanel training device 10B, which simulates receiving the intermediateflow of water from first pump panel training device 10A and deliveringthe water to a destination that needs the water.

Use of supervisory computerized device is optional. In someconfigurations, an instructor can enter parameters for an upcomingsimulation event directly into a display of a pump panel training devicewithout use of a separate supervisory computerized device. Supervisorycomputerized device 210 can include any computerized device including adesktop computer, a laptop computer, a tablet computer, a smart phonedevice, or other similar computerized device.

FIG. 7 illustrates an exemplary alternative simulation system includinga pump panel training device, a driver training device, a supervisorycomputerized device, and a remote server device. Simulation system 300is illustrated including a pump panel training device 10, a drivertraining device 340, supervisory computerized device 310, and remoteserver device 320. Pump panel training device 10 and driver trainingdevice 340 can be used to operate a cooperative training event, forexample, with performance of the driver trainee affecting parameters forthe pump panel trainee.

Use of a remote server device 320 is optional. A remote server devicecan be operated by a manufacturer of the system or by a largemunicipality operating a number of fire stations. Remote server device320 can operate a pre-programmed set or sequence of simulation events.Remote server device 320 can provide a set of localized rules andprotocols for particular regions or fire departments. Remote serverdevice 320 can monitor and report simulation results. Remote serverdevice 320 can provide assistance during simulation events, for example,with an expert standing by to provide guidance to trainees or technicalexperts standing by to answer questions about the system.

FIG. 8 schematically illustrates components of an exemplary pump paneltraining device communicating over a communications bus. Pump paneltraining device data communication system 400 is illustrated.Computerized pump panel control device 410 is located within a pumppanel training device and is illustrated including a computerizedprocessor operable to operate code and provide functionality related tosimulation events. Communications bus 470 is a device useful to providedata communication between components of a system. Gage controller 420,control input controller 430, display controller 440, audio control 450,and hose portion controller 460 are illustrated connected tocommunications bus 470. Each of gage controller 420, control inputcontroller 430, display controller 440, audio control 450, and hoseportion controller 460 include electronic and/or electromechanicaldevices useful to provide functionality to the simulated gages,controls, and connection fittings of the pump panel training device.

FIG. 9 schematically illustrates an exemplary computerized processoruseful to operate a pump panel training device. Computerized pump panelcontrol device 410 is illustrated, including processor device 510,durable memory storage device 550, communication device 520, inputmodule 530, and output module 540.

Processor device 510 includes a computing device known in the art usefulfor operating programmed code. Processor device 510 includes RAM memoryand can access stored data through connection to memory storage device550. Memory storage device 550 may include a hard drive, flash drive, orother similar device capable of receiving, storing, and providing accessto digital data. Memory storage device can include user data, map data,equipment information, rules and procedures data, scores and resultsdata, and any other data necessary to operate the disclosed simulationevents.

Processor device 510 includes programming modules including simulationevent module 512, device hardware module 514, and scoring module 516which represent programmed functions that are exemplary of processesthat can be carried out within processor device 510 but are intended tobe non-limiting examples of such processes. Simulation event module 512includes programming and data operable to operate the described pumppanel simulation events, monitor control inputs, determine eventparameters such as resulting pressures in lines, and determine outputdata such as gage readings and hose portion control parameters. Devicehardware module 514 includes programming to control and receive inputsfrom the various components of the pump panel training device, includingbut not limited to controlling gages and interpreting control inputsettings. Scoring module 516 compares simulated operation of the pumppanel training simulator to programmed criteria. Modules 512, 514, and516 can include any related programming and related processes and areintended only as non-limiting examples of how the system could beconfigured.

Input module 530 include any devices or mechanisms useful to receivetrainee and instructor input to modulate operation of the simulationevent, and can include but are not limited to simulated knobs, levers,buttons, and inputs to a touch screen display.

Output module 540 include any devices or mechanisms useful to provideoutputs to display screens, gages, hose portions, audio speakers, andother devices necessary to provide output to the driver or instructor.

Communication device 520 includes any wired or wireless communicationsystem required to send and receive data from the computerized device.

FIG. 10 schematically illustrates in cross-sectional view an exemplaryhose portion connected to an exemplary intake connection of a pump paneltraining device, with components internal to the pump panel trainingdevice fluidly connected to the hose portion and operable to controltemperature, pressure, and vibration of the hose portion. Cabinet outersurface 620 as part of a pump panel training device is illustratedincluding a connected intake connection 650. Hose portion 652 isconnected to intake connection 650. Exemplary components internal to theillustrated pump panel training device are illustrated including asubstance thermal control device 630 and a substance pressure controldevice 640. Any number of various devices in the art can be used asthermal control device 630, which can include heating coils, a coolantloop, and/or a refrigerant loop to selectively heat and cool water, air,or any other substance used to fill hose portion 652. Any number ofvarious devices in the art can be used as thermal control device 630,which can include a mechanically driven piston 642 or any othermechanism useful for controlling pressure and/or vibration of thesubstance used to fill hose portion 652. In one example, a compressorproviding pressurized air along with a plurality of control valves canbe used to selectively change pressure acting upon the substance used tofill hose portion 652.

FIG. 11 schematically illustrates an exemplary pump panel trainingdevice operable to be operated with exemplary virtual reality andaugmented reality devices. Virtual reality or augmented reality can beutilized in combination with the disclosed pump panel training devices.Pump panel training device 710 is illustrated including cabinet 720 andaudio speaker 740. Displays and gages have been omitted from pump paneltraining device 710, and instead a virtual reality headpiece 760 and atablet computerized device 770 operable to operate augmented reality ormixed reality are illustrated. Tablet computerized device 770 isexemplary and can be substituted with any portable computerized devicecapable of operating augmented or mixed reality. Tablet computerizeddevice 770 includes camera view angle 772 useful to capture images withdevice 770. Either virtual reality headpiece 760 or tablet computerizeddevice 770 can be utilized in cooperation with pump panel trainingdevice 710 to operate a simulation event, for example, with gages andthe display being provided as rendered graphics upon either virtualreality headpiece 760 or tablet computerized device 770. Visual tokens730A and 730B are provided as exemplary QR codes and enable acomputerized controller to coordinate movement of virtual realityheadpiece 760 or tablet computerized device 770 with the renderedgraphics, such that a user can still interact with pump panel trainingdevice 710 and the various control inputs thereupon while viewingsimulation details upon virtual reality headpiece 760 or tabletcomputerized device 770. Similarly, a visual token 730C embodied as alogo upon hose portion 752 is provided to enable the computerizedcontroller to coordinate movement of virtual reality headpiece 760 ortablet computerized device 770 with the rendered graphics, such that auser can still interact with hose portion 752 and receive temperature,pressure, and vibratory sensations therefrom.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary process to providetactile outputs to a user related to a pump panel simulation. Process800 starts at step 802. At step 804, the system initiates thesimulation, including utilizing any parameters that are pre-programmedfor the simulation and/or selected by a trainer supervising thesimulation. At step 806, simulated outputs generated by the simulationare displayed to the user, for example, with pressure gage readings,audio outputs, and warning lights providing a user with a simulatedstatus of a pump panel. At step 808, inputs from the user regarding thesimulation and simulated control of the pump panel are monitored andsimulation results based upon the inputs are generated, for example,simulating an effect of activating a particular valve upon waterpressures throughout the system. At step 810, a determination is madewhether the simulated results warrant a tactile output, for example,changing a pressure within a hose portion attached to the pump panel. Ifno tactile output is warranted, the process advances to step 814. If atactile output is warranted, the process advances to step 812 wherecomponents or devices available to and controlled by the simulationcreate the warranted tactile outputs. At step 814, a determination ismade whether the simulation is concluded. If the simulation is notconcluded, the process returns to step 806 to reiterate steps of thesimulation. If the simulation is concluded, then the process ends atstep 816. Process 800 is provided as an exemplary process that can beutilized to operate a pump panel simulator in accordance with thepresent disclosure. Other embodiments of the process are envisioned inaccordance with the disclosure, and the disclosure is not intended to belimited to the examples provided herein.

FIG. 13 schematically illustrates an exemplary alternative configurationof a pump panel training device used in tandem with a water hosecircuit. System 900 is illustrated including pump panel training device910 including simulated water hose 952 operable to provide a tactileoutput to a user of pump panel training device 910. In order to providea realistic tactile output, simulated water hose 952 is part of waterhose circuit 940 operable to circulate water through simulated waterhose 952. Water hose circuit 940 includes supply hose 930, return hose932, and water pump and conditioning unit 920. Water pump andconditioning unit 920 is illustrated as a separate physical device frompump panel training device 910. In some embodiments, water pump andconditioning unit 920 may be integral with pump panel training device910, with water flowing through an external loop of water hose includingsupply hose 930.

Water pump and conditioning unit 920 may include water pump 922 operableto create water pressure within supply hose 930 and circulate waterthrough water hose circuit 940. Water pump and conditioning unit 920 mayinclude water temperature control device 924 operable to heat and/orcool water flowing through water hose circuit 940 and may includeelements such as electric heating coils and a refrigerant coolingcircuit to effect changes to water temperature. In one embodiment, watertemperature control device 924 can include one or more water reservoirsuseful to maintain a quantity of water at a certain temperature toincrease an ability of the simulation to quickly deliver a change towater temperature. Water pump and conditioning unit 920 may includewater vibration control device 926 operable to create pulses or rapidpressure variations in the water flow through water hose circuit 940.Water hose circuit 940 is provided as an exemplary embodiment, and thedisclosure is not intended to be limited to the examples providedherein.

The disclosure has described certain preferred embodiments andmodifications of those embodiments. Further modifications andalterations may occur to others upon reading and understanding thespecification. Therefore, it is intended that the disclosure not belimited to the particular embodiment(s) disclosed as the best modecontemplated for carrying out this disclosure, but that the disclosurewill include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appendedclaims.

The invention claimed is:
 1. An apparatus comprising a pump paneltraining device, comprising: a plurality of simulated gages operable toimitate gages upon a fire truck pump panel; a plurality of simulatedcontrols operable to imitate controls upon the fire truck pump panel;and a simulated water hose operable to imitate one of water temperaturechanges, water pressure, and water hose vibration for the fire truckpump panel.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the simulated waterhose comprises a hose portion comprising a round hose fitting on a firstend and a sealed end on a second end.
 3. The apparatus of claim 2,wherein the hose portion is filled with water.
 4. The apparatus of claim2, wherein the hose portion is filled with air.
 5. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the simulated water hose comprises a water hose circuitoperable to circulate water through the simulated water hose.
 6. Theapparatus of claim 1, further comprising a display operable to displayrendered graphics.
 7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the displaycomprises a touch screen display operable to receive inputs from a user.8. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the display comprises an externaldisplay attached to the pump panel training device and operable todisplay details of a simulated environment around the pump paneltraining device.
 9. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising avirtual reality visor.
 10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein theplurality of simulated gages are rendered as graphics upon the virtualreality visor.
 11. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising acomputerized device operable to operate augmented reality.
 12. Theapparatus of claim 11, wherein the plurality of simulated gages arerendered as graphics upon the computerized device.